Advocacy can feel exhausting — especially in a profession that already demands so much emotionally and physically. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bethany Montoya, MBA, BAS, RDH to talk about how to stand up for yourself, your patients, and your profession without sacrificing your well-being.

Bethany shares her personal journey through challenge, change, and growth — and how embracing the storm can actually make you stronger. From navigating the pressures of clinical life to stepping into new leadership roles, she reminds us that authenticity and community are essential tools in sustainable advocacy.

This conversation is honest, energizing, and filled with practical encouragement for hygienists who want to make a difference without burning out.

Connect with Bethany:

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanymontoya/

🔗 Resources & Projects: https://linktr.ee/humanrdh

[email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Danyelle Evans to explore her path from an invested clinician to becoming a state and national advocate for oral health and access to prevention.

Danyelle shares the moment that shifted her perspective from frustration to action: caring for a patient who could no longer continue treatment in a traditional brick-and-mortar dental office. Watching him lose access to care sparked her desire to create opportunities to continue caring for patients in more accessible, patient-centered ways.

From that experience, Danyelle's advocacy journey grew. She reflects on how professional association membership became a critical foundation—providing education, leadership development, and a voice in policy conversations that directly impact patient care. We also discuss how networking, mentorship, and showing up consistently opened doors to opportunities she never could have planned for, but was prepared to step into.

Resources:

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/danyelleevans

@mobile_dentalhygiene

facebook.com/MobileDentalHygieneofSt.George

Dr. Johnson returns to the podcast to share a powerful and often-overlooked perspective on tribal dentistry, career fulfillment, and why passion truly matters in dentistry. This conversation goes beyond clinical techniques and dives into purpose, opportunity, and loving the work you do.

🦷 What You'll Learn in This Episode

Understanding Tribal Dentistry: A Unique Perspective

Dr. Johnson offers an inside look at tribal dentistry—how it operates, who it serves, and why it plays a vital role in improving access to care in underserved communities.

Navigating Job Opportunities in Tribal Dentistry

Thinking outside the traditional private practice model? Dr. Johnson breaks down career paths, benefits, and professional growth opportunities available in tribal dentistry.

The Impact of Passion in Dentistry Revealed

Passion isn't optional—it's essential. Dr. Johnson explains how loving what you do directly affects patient care, team culture, and long-term career satisfaction.

Why Loving Your Job Makes a Difference

From daily mindset to burnout prevention, Dr. Johnson shares how fulfillment in dentistry leads to better outcomes for both patients and providers.

Discover the Tooth Fairy's Secret Money Source

A fun and lighthearted moment in the episode, Dr. Johnson reveals a playful take on the legendary tooth fairy—and the Children's book that he wrote about it!

Resources:

Where Does the Tooth Fairy Get All That Money?

https://a.co/d/7YpQVgC

The Sacred Chalice

https://a.co/d/0XfYf5Y

In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, hosts Jessica Atkinson and David Torres sit down with Brittnee Thibault and Lindsay Richmond—two hygienists who graduated with no pediatric local anesthetic practice in school and went on to become confident clinicians providing local anesthesia for children.

Brittnee and Lindsay share how they developed pediatric anesthesia skills after graduation, building confidence through preparation, mentorship, and real-world experience. They discuss behavior management, anesthesia techniques, and parent-provider communication—highlighting how being prepared allows clinicians to stay calm rather than panicked when treating pediatric patients.

What We Cover

Transitioning from no pediatric local anesthetic practice in school to confidently anesthetizing children

Pediatric behavior management strategies that support successful anesthesia

Practical anesthesia techniques and considerations for pediatric patients

Managing children and their parents during appointments

Parent-provider communication that builds trust and reduces anxiety

Resources:

Social Media Handles:

@Lindsay.richmond16

[email protected]

@brittnee.thibault

[email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Johnson, a dedicated pediatric dentist (pedodontist), to explore what makes pediatric dentistry truly unique—and why it's about so much more than just teeth. From mastering parent communication to handling unexpected holiday emergencies, Dr. Johnson shares real-world insights from the front lines of pediatric care.

🦷 What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why Dr. Johnson Became a Pedodontist

Dr. Johnson shares the personal and professional journey that led him to specialize in pediatric dentistry, and what continues to inspire his passion for treating children.

The Journey to Becoming a Pediatric Dentist

An inside look at the training, mindset, and commitment required to pursue pediatric dentistry—and how it differs from general practice.

Why Pediatric Dentistry Requires a Unique Approach

Children aren't just small adults. Dr. Johnson explains how behavior, development, fear, and trust shape every clinical decision in pediatric care.

Mastering Parent Communication in Dentistry

Effective pediatric dentistry depends on strong relationships with parents. Dr. Johnson breaks down how to educate, reassure, and partner with families for better outcomes.

The Power of Prevention in Pediatric Dentistry

From early habits to long-term oral health, prevention is the cornerstone of pediatric dentistry. Learn how early intervention can set kids up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

When to Consider Sedation for Pediatric Patients

A thoughtful discussion on sedation—when it's appropriate, how decisions are made, and how safety and comfort are prioritized for young patients.

The Unexpected Tooth Emergency on Christmas Eve

Dr. Johnson shares a memorable real-life story that highlights the unpredictable nature of pediatric dentistry—and the dedication it takes to care for patients when it matters most.

Resources:

Dr. Johnson's book

Link: https://a.co/d/7YpQVgC

[email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Christine Jeffs, co-founder of Acuti Sharpening, to talk about why sharpening isn't optional—it's essential.

Christine shares how she got started in the sharpening business and how Acuti Sharpening came to life alongside co-founder Melia Lewis, RDH. We unpack the often-overlooked role instrument sharpness plays in ergonomics, efficiency, patient comfort, and long-term career longevity.

This conversation goes beyond the what and into the why. Christine explains how sharpening directly impacts clinical outcomes and why making it a consistent habit—not an afterthought—can change the way hygienists practice. Whether you're new to sharpening or know you should be doing it more regularly, this episode offers clarity, motivation, and practical insight.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

How Christine got into the sharpening space

The origin of Acuti Sharpening

Why sharp instruments matter for clinicians, patients, and careers

How to build sharpening into a regular clinical routine

Resources:

[email protected]

In this episode, we introduce The Pros at Glam Studio and the passion behind their work. As licensed dental hygienists with decades of experience, they share how they combine dental hygiene and aesthetics to help clients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles.

We talk about their approach to safe, personalized care, their expansion into hygienic piercing services, and why client comfort, education, and confidence are at the heart of everything they do.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

How Glam Studio blends dental hygiene and aesthetics

The importance of safety, certification, and client care

Why confidence and feeling your best matter

Resources:

[email protected]

https://voyageutah.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-laraine-hartle-and-lindsey-jepperson-of-glam-studio-pros

Website: https://glamstudiopros.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glamstudiopros?igsh=MXF2eXg4ZWM2aHZjYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zdy8KL95/?mibextid=wwXIfr Youtube: https://youtube.com/@glamstudiopros?si=lRvW9_fyFoKTZh3j#

In this episode, we welcome our new co-host, Jessica and David with a fun, question-based game to get to know each other on (and off) the mic. Instead of a formal intro, we dive into stories, laughs, and a few unexpected answers.

We talk about how this co-hosting partnership came together, what excites us about this new chapter, and why having fun is at the heart of great conversations.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

How Jessica & David joined the podcast

A get-to-know-you game with surprising moments

What's ahead for the podcast?

Resources:

Jessica's Email - [email protected],

David's Email - [email protected]

In this episode, we chat with Ashley Kear about starting her Etsy shop and what happens when you stop trying to niche yourself into a box—and instead combine everything you love.

Ashley shares how her journey began not just with creativity and curiosity, but with encouragement from friends who saw her talent and pushed her to go for it.

We explore letting ideas evolve, trusting your instincts, and allowing fun to be part of the process. Sometimes the magic comes from experimenting, playing, and building something that feels like you.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

• How Ashley got started on Etsy—with a nudge from a colleague

• Blending multiple passions into one creative outlet

• The role of community and encouragement in taking creative risks

• Letting fun guide the creative and business process

Resources:

[email protected] https://linktr.ee/ashleykearart?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

In this episode, we sit down with Shelley Brown to talk about what happens when creativity, clinical care, and advocacy collide.

Shelley shares the story behind her "side gig," Homebound Smiles, and how a simple idea grew into meaningful work serving patients who often fall through the cracks of traditional care models. We explore what it really takes to build a full professional life—without burning out or losing your spark.

This conversation goes beyond business. Shelley opens up about advocacy in dental hygiene, recognizing unmet needs, and staying creatively energized. Whether you're dreaming about a side project, craving more purpose, or simply trying to keep your creativity flowing, this episode will leave you inspired and grounded.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

• How Homebound Smiles came to life—and why it matters

• Navigating side gigs while maintaining balance and boundaries

• Advocacy as both action and mindset in dental hygiene

• Giving yourself permission to evolve professionally

Resources:

[email protected] @Shelley_The_Hygienist https://youtu.be/g03aZFjmKz8 https://www.shelley.dental/product-page/public-health-hygienist-in-utah-resource-guide HygieneEdgeucators.com https://www.shelley.dental/